Taiwo Awoniyi missed out on the Premier League Player of Matchweek 35 award despite a standout performance for Nottingham Forest, with Kobbie Mainoo claiming the prize after his match-winning display for Manchester United, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Awoniyi had been nominated following an impressive outing in Forest’s 3-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, where he marked his 100th appearance for the club with a decisive contribution.
The Nigerian striker opened the scoring after two minutes with a header, won a penalty that led to the second goal, and added another strike early in the second half to secure the win.
The brace took his tally to four goals in 14 league appearances this season and played a crucial role in lifting Forest to 16th place, six points clear of the relegation zone with three matches remaining.
His performance earned him a place among seven nominees for the weekly accolade, with supporters voting to determine the winner.
However, it was Mainoo who emerged victorious after producing a decisive performance in Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Liverpool.
The midfielder scored the winning goal and played a key role in securing UEFA Champions League qualification for his side.
In the Premier League’s official announcement of the winner of Wednesday afternoon, they stated that Mainoo’s influence extended beyond his goal, as he controlled the midfield with composure and efficiency throughout the contest.
The England international secured 54 per cent of the fan vote to claim his first Player of the Matchweek award, finishing well ahead of his closest challenger Viktor Gyökeres, who received 13 per cent.
Awoniyi polled six per cent, placing him among the leading contenders but short of the winning mark.
Other nominees included Jeremy Doku, Bukayo Saka, Conor Gallagher and Thierno Barry, following notable performances across the league.
Despite missing out on the award, Awoniyi’s display reinforced his importance to Forest’s survival push, with the Nigerian forward expected to play a key role in their remaining league fixtures this season, as he was not listed for their Europa League campaign over fitness issues in the early part of the season.
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